Coal Age

JUN 2013

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suppliers news JoyGlobal Introduces Track Shield for Electric Shovels A new dipper-track collision avoidance system will minimize, if not eliminate, structural impact. JoyGlobal has introduced the Track Shield Collision Detection & Mitigation System, a dipper-track collision avoidance technology solution for electric shovels. Designed with extensive shovel operator input, the system uses precise mathematical modeling and prediction based on readings from sensory devices and the P&H; brand Centurion electrical control system to monitor and minimize structural impact of the dipper and crawler shoes. Repeated dipper-crawler strikes are a major contributor to reduced crawler shoe life and structural cracking. This can result in unplanned and unbudgeted shoe, pin and hardware replacements. Long term, it can also mean more costly repairs to crawler frames and car body structures. "Dippers are increasingly becoming larger and deeper. Mining operations in applications such as oil sands require wider tracks to accommodate floatation," said Eric Hsieh, product manager-technology at JoyGlobal Surface Mining. "Under these circumstances it is difficult even for the most experienced operators to avoid repeated dipper-track strikes." The Track Shield system can give shovel operators the confidence to maintain full speed in order to achieve optimum cycle times. It can also assist new operators by guiding them in where they need to be in respect to distance to the digging face for proper fill factors. Reinforcing best digging practices for both new and experienced shovel operators, combined with improved machine availability, can result in a significant increase in productivity. rock/industrial minerals mines in the Midwest. "This facility enables further expansion for growth in the Midwest where we can advance our lean manufacturing strategies and showcase our world class operations," said DSI Underground Systems USA Mining President and General Manager Jim Pinkley. The new 32,000-square-foot facility sits on a 5 acre site in the Vanderburgh Industrial Park. DSI Underground Systems designs, develops, and supplies ground support products and systems. DSI currently has more than 2,100 employees worldwide and six manufacturing facilities in the United States. Fletcher Donates $100,000 to SME Foundation Representatives of J.H. Fletcher & Co. announced the donation of $100,000 to the SME Foundation as part of their company's Mining Engineering Scholarship for students interested in underground mining, along with the names of two grant recipients. This endowment will enable Fletcher to continue support for future engineers. This year's grant recipients are Hannah McNally from the University of Missouri at Rolla and Andrew Nielson from the University of Utah, with scholarships of $2,500 each. In addition, J.H. Fletcher provides assistance to employees whose children seek to further their education at any accredited four-year degree institution. To date, Fletcher has provided finan- KBR Wins Contract for Eagle Pass Coal Facility KBR Inc. has been awarded a contract by the Dos Republicas Coal Partnership to provide categorical engineering and technical assistance for the Eagle Pass mine near Eagle Pass, Texas, according to company officials. "This award builds upon KBR's track record for safely delivering major coal mine projects" said Mark Read, president, KBR Minerals. The contract includes option analysis, detailed engineering for the material handling systems and technical assistance during contract construction phases. DSI Underground Opens New Facility in Illinois Officials at DSI Underground Systems recently opened a steel manufacturing and resin distribution center in Evansville, Ind. The plant is centrally located to serve the Illinois Basin coalfields and the hard 54 www.coalage.com Andrew Nielson and Hannah McNally earned $2,500 scholarships from the J.H. Fletcher & Co. Mining Engineering Scholarship Fund. Left to right are: Billy Goad (business development manager), Charlene Kendall, Bill Kendall (western district sales manager), Andrew Nielson (recipient), Hannah McNally (recipient), Greg Hinshaw (CEO) and Ben Hardman (VP of domestic sales). June 2013

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